Lot details Registration No: CLT 333 Chassis No: B107FC Mot Expiry: Aug 2007
At the dawn of the 1930s with the reverberations of 'Black Friday' (29/10/1929) being felt worldwide, competition between carmakers grew increasingly desperate. Thus, while WO Bentley sought to refine his 8 litre into the ultimate luxury carriage, Rolls-Royce responded by dabbling with a sports car concept. Their concerns as to the branding of 'Peregrine' (as the project was labelled internally) were alleviated by Bentley's collapse in 1931. Outflanking rivals D. Napier & Son, they acquired Bentley wholesale (including WO's services) for £125,257. With a department brief that "the new car must be as unlike the Rolls-Royce models as possible" Derby engineers set about preparing 'Peregrine' for flight. Built on a 'double-dropped' chassis carrying all round semi-elliptic leaf sprung suspension and assisted drum brakes, the new car used a tuned version of the Rolls-Royce 20/25's 3669cc OHV straight-six. Boasting twin SU carburettors, a wilder cam, strengthened con-rods and a higher compression ratio, this revamped unit developed around 120bhp (a fifty percent improvement) without compromising on refinement. Equipped with the 20/25's four-speed manual gearbox, high-geared worm and nut steering and hydraulic dampers, the resultant 'Silent Sportscar' - as the Bentley 3.5 litre soon became known - was unveiled during the August 1933 Ascot Races.
Finished in blue over cream with grey leather example, this particular example wears four-door sports saloon coachwork by Thrupp & Maberley (and Mann Egerton supplier's plaques). Reportedly rebuilt to a high standard several years ago, 'CLT 333' is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Further said to have been retrofitted with "desirable overdrive on top gear", it rides on smart wire wheels. Treated to "specialist servicing" as part of a private collection, this stylish Bentley is offered for sale with "12 months" MOT certificate and historic class (free) road tax.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has an MOT until August 2007.
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